How to be Extraordinary

by Rashmi Sirdeshpande, illustrated by Annabel Tempest

Interest age: 6 to 8
Reading age: 5+

Published by Puffin, 2019

  • Around the world
  • Historical
  • Non-fiction
  • Picture books

About this book

This inspirational non-fiction picture book introduces children to extraordinary people from across the world and throughout history. Selected from a range of disciplines, including science, medicine, sport, politics and the arts, the 15 featured individuals are united by common themes of hard work, perseverance and their remarkable achievements.

Some names – such as Sir David Attenborough, Nelson Mandela or Michelle Obama – may be familiar to young readers, whereas others will be new to them. Children will learn about the bravery and determination of Aeham Ahmad, a Syrian musician who dragged his piano though war-torn streets to perform songs of hope and unity; or be enthused by Kenyan environmentalist Wangari Maathai, who inspired generations of people to plant millions of trees across the world, helping to combat the damaging effects of pollution and climate change.

Full of colour and movement, the dynamic illustrations have touches of humour and cleverly guide the reader through the informative text, which is dotted across each double-page spread. This joyful celebration of an eclectic group of exceptional individuals is sure to be enjoyed by a broad audience and will encourage children to think about how they too can be extraordinary.

About the author

Rashmi Sirdeshpande is an award-winning neurodivergent children's author who loves taking big ideas and making them accessible and exciting for young readers. She writes a mix of picture books, poetry, fiction and illustrated non-fiction. A former official World Book Day author and BookTrust Writer-in-Residence, her books have been published around the world and featured in a number of national and international newspapers. 

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